My Dreams are Just Dreams
It was during the 2020 quarantine that I first set my sights on studying abroad in Japan. At that time, it felt like a distant dream, something I wanted, but wasn’t sure I could ever reach. I come from a lower-income household and had never truly explored a life beyond Texas. Yet now, I’m here: 15 hours ahead, living in an entirely new world.
First Impressions
“I’m really here,” was the first thought I had after landing at Narita Airport. I came with two of my friends, Bianca and Naomi; we have been in the same Japanese class since Spring 2024, so I felt confident we would be able to navigate everything together.
The Not-So-Perfect Reality
But reality hit quickly: We were not prepared at all. Somehow, though, that made everything more exciting. My mission was simple — explore Japan, make new friends, and take my language skills to another level. I’m an extrovert, and I never shy away from new experiences.
Still, my first month was harder than I expected. Classes became overwhelming. I suddenly felt shy about talking to strangers. And every day, I felt like time was racing ahead of me.
Trusting the Process
Then it clicked: My problem wasn’t time. My problem was me. I was spending too much energy overthinking how to approach people and making excuses about why I couldn’t explore. Once I realized that, everything shifted.
I started going to club events, talking to new people, and creating memories outside my comfort zone. I practiced my Japanese and even taught a new friend some Igbo, a Nigerian language! These new connections made daily life brighter and transformed my routine into something meaningful — a true cross-cultural exchange.
Beauty Beyond the City
One of my favorite things about Japan is exploring beyond Tokyo. The first place I visited was Hidaka in Saitama, about two hours away by train. I recently learned the phrase: 「感動と言ったら、本当に忘れられない」(When it comes to how moving it was, it’s truly unforgettable.)
That’s exactly how I felt standing in front of millions of red spider lilies. I was in absolute awe, and that feeling pushed me to keep exploring. Since then, I’ve seen the beaches of Kamakura, hiked through the mountains of Okutama and watched autumn leaves glow like fire. There are still countless places to discover, and each one is just another train ride away.
Looking Forward
Looking back at my first day compared to now, it feels like I’m becoming a version of myself I once only imagined. I didn’t come here expecting to change, but somehow, Japan changed me anyway.
As time continues to fly by, I’m learning to make the most of every moment. Yes, studying abroad can be challenging. Yes, there are both good and difficult days. And yes, sometimes I question if I made the right choice. To anyone considering studying abroad, here’s what I’ve learned: It’s all part of the process.
It may be hard, but you are capable. There will be highs and lows, but the ride is still worth taking. And I promise that in the end, it is worth it. I’ve already made lifelong friends, unforgettable memories, and stories I’ll someday tell my family and future generations.
Living abroad is a feeling that goes beyond language, something you can only truly understand when you’re living it. If studying abroad is on your heart, follow it. Explore new horizons. Expand the way you see the world.
And never forget: What starts here changes the world. So go and be that change.
This post was contributed by Prescilla Aniede, Global Ambassador for Fall 2025. Prescilla is a McCombs School of Business Junior participating in an exchange program at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan.
